Our Building

The house was designed in 1757 by the renowned architect of the time Thomas Wright, who was also responsible for a number of other very special period features, such as the heart shaped lake and the exquisitely decorated shell grotto. The grotto served as a summerhouse, which was the venue of many moonlit parties. Today the grotto is a rare blend of two upper class obsessions of the time; Rococo garden design and shell collecting.

Anna-Maria left Hampton Court House following the Earl’s death in 1771. Since then it has been the home to numerous distinguished, and not so distinguished, owners, including the 4th Earl of Sandwich. Best remembered as a compulsive gambler and inventor of the sandwich, the Earl would save having to leave the card table to take a meal, by calling for a piece of beef to be brought over to him, between two slices of bread.

Within easy reach from the centre of London, whether by car, train, helicopter or boat, today Hampton Court House and its grounds is as spectacular as ever, making it the perfect choice for both private and corporate functions.